His number two matches his bellicosity. Deputy NATO commander General Adrian Bradshaw lied saying:

"Russia’s actions in Crimea and eastern Ukraine demonstrated the readiness of Russia to begin a process of change in the sovereign borders of sovereign states by force, which was a major deviation from internationally accepted legal norms."

"This would have implications…for all EU member states of the Alliance, particularly those of the eastern flank."

"We need to show clearly that we are steadfast in that we stand behind the provisions of Article 5."

It considers a real or contrived attack on one member an attack on all. It calls for collective self-defense.

"Our response so far has been entirely defensive," said Bradshaw.

It's "necessary to assure our allies, especially those from the Eastern flank that we stand firmly behind the principles laid down in Article 5, (and) will not allow aggression by a state to any of our allies."

NATO's only threats are ones it invents. It's Eastern European buildup risks direct confrontation with Russia - a possible unthinkable war between the world's most formidable nuclear powers.

"New challenges and threats of military security demand the further heightening of military capabilities of the Armed Forces, and special attention will be paid to the state of the newly formed strategic merging" of Northern Fleet forces, said Shoigu.

Land, air and sea exercises began on March 16. They continue through March 21.

Russia is preparing to repel potential aggression on all its borders.

All branches of its military are conducting major exercises nationwide - including in the Volga region, Urals, Western Siberia, Far East and Pacific, North Caucasus, and along NATO bordering states from the Arctic to the Black Sea.

Given US belligerence, Russia intends to be ready for any eventuality. It may need to respond quickly.

Overall current exercises involve about 76,000 troops, over 10,000 military hardware pieces and special equipment, 65 warships, 16 support vessels, 15 submarines, 200 warplanes and various type helicopters.

Last December, Russia's Defense Ministry announced plans for at least 4,000 military exercises this year - a massive undertaking given Washington's threat to world peace.

Media scoundrels promote war. Neocon Washington Post editors are some of the worst.

It featured neocon Joshua Muravchik's op ed promoting war on Iran. Maybe he plans a follow-up one urging Washington nuke Russia.

He outrageously calls Iran "violent, rapacious, devious and redolent with hatred for Israel and the United States."